New Management Programme for Cat Colonies Approved by Marbella Town Hall
Marbella Town Hall has given the green light to a new management programme aimed at controlling the feeding and protection of cat colonies within the municipality. The programme was approved during a council meeting on Tuesday, 15 April 2025. Alejandro González, the councillor for health, stated that while many individuals have been feeding stray cats in certain areas, this activity will now be regulated.
Regulations for Volunteers Feeding Cats
Starting from Wednesday, 23 April, volunteers wishing to feed the cats will need to fill out an application form. This form will be available on the town hall website and at all citizen services offices. The application will include a declaration of responsibility. Volunteers must be at least 18 years old, registered on the town hall’s census, and commit to feeding the cats as per the town hall’s guidelines. González emphasized the need for dry food and maintaining hygiene, and stated that a photocopy of an ID card must accompany the application.
Training and Evaluation for Volunteers
Applicants will be required to attend a training session before receiving a license. González explained that an evaluation committee, including Silvia Zamora and Bettina Pietsch, president of Triple A, will serve as the link between the town hall and the feeders. He urged interested individuals to mark the location where they usually feed the animals on the Marbella map.
Feeding Locations and Compliance with Law
The town hall’s health department will oversee whether the chosen feeding location complies with the law and certain requirements. The activity cannot take place in private areas, at school entrances, or parks without the approval of a residents’ association. If necessary, new locations will be identified. Once a colony is approved, two individuals will be appointed to feed the cats and will receive an official card with their photo, name, and a QR code linked to the town hall’s decree.
Marbella Town Hall’s Commitment to Animal Welfare
The town hall has been actively involved in managing stray animals for years, implementing the Control, Sterilisation and Return (CER) system in collaboration with the Triple A animal shelter. The town hall has an annual agreement with Triple A for €100,000, demonstrating its commitment to animal welfare.
